Gerontology Certificate

Mission Statement

The mission of the gerontology certificate program is to provide students with knowledge and skills in the study of aging. Students will acquire information related to adult development and the influences of social and biological processes on individual aging. Students will be prepared for graduate studies and careers related to adult development and aging.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students will critique an internship experience within the context of the practical application of current gerontological methodology and research.

Program Description

The gerontology certificate program, administered through the Department of Psychology, is designed to provide students with a foundation of knowledge and skills in the study of aging. The 22 credit hour (8 course) undergraduate certificate program is open to any degree-seeking student currently enrolled in a degree program at the University and individuals holding a baccalaureate degree who desire specialized studies. The multi-disciplinary program allows individuals of different interests and backgrounds to develop specializations in line with their unique needs and is applicable in a rapidly growing market segment.

All candidates for a gerontology certificate must file with the director of gerontology a formal application for gerontology certificate form during the first month of the semester of graduation. The application forms may be obtained from the director of gerontology or the Office of the Registrar. Applications for summer certification are to be submitted by June 15.

Admission

Students become eligible for admission to the gerontology program upon submitting an application to the director of the program after demonstrating satisfactory completion of 30 or more credits of college-level studies including PSYC 101 or SOC 101. Admission to the gerontology program must take place not later than one full fall or spring semester before an internship placement. An internship placement will occur only after admission to the program and satisfactory completion of at least four courses in the gerontology curriculum.

Program Requirements

The program requirements are supplemental to a student’s major field of study and may be taken along with the traditional degree requirements or after the degree is completed by individuals meeting the University’s entrance requirements. Students pursuing a gerontology certificate while completing major field of study requirements should consult with an academic adviser in the major field of study to determine the status of gerontology program courses as electives, cognates, or major requirements. The certificate of program completion will be issued only concurrently with, or after, the accomplishment of a baccalaureate degree.